An Interview With Kerrie Hess, Fashion Illustrator
One Saturday afternoon whilst browsing the card and gift section of Hoopers in Tunbridge Wells, we came across the most beautiful birthday cards we’ve ever seen. Combining LadyM’s two favourite passions- fashion and Paris. There was a collection of a few designs and they were snapped up for the “Paris Collection” in the office, but we also wanted to know more about the Illustrator behind them and her inspiration.
Australian born Illustrator and designer Kerrie Hess was based until recently in Paris. She originally worked as a designer at The Independent in London and it was whilst she was there that she received her first fashion commission from Australian Vogue. That was about 12 years ago, since then she’s lived in London, Paris and has now returned home to Australia and illustration has become her full time career.
Kerrie has illustrated for the likes off Net-A-Porter.com as well as editorials for Vogue and Tatler, her illustrations have featured on several teeshirt and scarf ranges in Australia and Japan as well as having illustrated for the world renowned fashion houses Chanel, Alexander McQueen and Christian Louboutin.
We thought we’d get to know the brains behind the beautiful illustrations a little more – so by the power of email across the world, Kerrie gave us an insight into her life and her work.
Taken by Carla Coulson
Q. What is a typical working day for you?
A. It’s busy! I’m up at 6.45, get my four year old son ready and get to kindy. That’s usually followed by coffee and checking emails on my phone, and hopefully at my desk by 9am to get started. I do tend to have a peek at both my facebook page and others that I follow, but I try to not get too distracted! I like to keep things very simple on the weekend as my week is so busy. A take away coffee in the park or a trip to the cinema and I’m happy!
Q. You illustrate for magazines, fashion labels, shops around the world – Where do you get your ideas from for your illustrations?
A. From almost anything! I like to keep my eyes peeled for inspiration either on the street, fashion blogs, at a gallery or any edition of Vogue is usually inspiring.
Q. You have previously been based in Paris, how much of an inspiration is the city and what are your favourite parts of Paris?
A. Living in Paris was obviously amazing for anyone who is creative. Just walking down the street to pick up some pastries at my local boulangerie would often inspire. My favourite parts of Paris were St Germain on the left bank and Le Marais. I also always had a soft spot for cafe’s; Angelina and Laduree.
Q. You’re originally from Australia, did you miss the lifestyle there or does Europe appeal more for your job?
A. I loved so many things about living in both Paris and London, but also did miss a lot of things about Australia. I missed Australian coffee (which in Melbourne thanks to the Italian influence there, is surprisingly is better than in Paris) and I missed the beach, which surprised me as I’m really more of a winter type. But then when in Australia, I do miss the architecture, pastries, and a stroll along Rue St Honoré in Paris! I also think fashion is possibly the best in London where women dress with a real edge rather than just sticking to the classics. It’s hard to have it all!
Q. Where would you really like to see some of your illustrations?
A. I feel very lucky to have already worked for some of my own favourite brands such as Chanel, Collette Dinnigan, Kate Spade, and net-a-porter, but I would love to think that the best is yet to come. I sometimes enjoy working on the smaller collaborations just as much as the ones for major brands. I would also love to exhibit. That’s next on my list!
Q. Have you seen the fashion industry change in the last few years, have you had to adapt?
A. I think in this economy designers are working harder than ever to stay in touch. I feel like there has been a move more towards authenticity with a less computer generated look being more in favour. This is great for me actually as my work has moved this way organically also. I almost never use photoshop now, and have gone back to basics of water colour and paint brushes… Luckily I happen to get so much more enjoyment out of illustrating this way!
Q) What’s the most rewarding part of your work? What is your greatest accomplishment so far?
A) Illustrating the Chanel Barbie campaign was a real thrill as well as working on Vogue’s Fashion Night Out. Also meeting the Kate Spade team in Paris to work on prints last year was quite lovely too. I also published a style book called Shoestring Chic last year, which I wrote and illustrated. Seeing it hit shelves, being such a personal project, was fantastic…
Q) What is next for Kerrie Hess? What are your goals for 2012/13?
A) Right now I am about to start work on two new silk scarf designs for a lovely brand called L’Avion… As well as work on some more greeting cards to release in the UK and also a fabulous range of cushions! I’m excited about these and other collaborations in the works, but my main goal for the year is to just really enjoy each day, time with my son, and just always try and stay in the moment as that’s when I feel my happiest.
L’Avion Scarf Illustration
You can read more about Kerrie and see her designs on her website and at her facebook page.
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